Concubinage in the biblical context refers to a recognized relationship between a man and a woman that is similar to marriage but lacks the full status and rights of a formal marriage. Concubines were often considered secondary wives and held a distinct position within the household. The practice of concubinage is documented in various parts of the Old Testament, where it was a socially accepted institution, particularly among the patriarchs and kings of Israel.

Biblical Context and Examples

Concubinage is first notably mentioned in the lives of the patriarchs. Abraham, for instance, took Hagar, his wife Sarah's maidservant, as a concubine to bear a child (Genesis 16:1-4). This arrangement was made with Sarah's consent, highlighting the social and familial dynamics involved in concubinage. Hagar's status as a concubine is evident in her relationship with Abraham and the subsequent birth of Ishmael.

Jacob, another patriarch, had concubines as well. Bilhah and Zilpah, the maidservants of his wives Rachel and Leah, respectively, were given to Jacob as concubines, and they bore him children (Genesis 30:3-13). These children were considered part of Jacob's family and were included among the twelve tribes of Israel.

King David also had concubines, as recorded in 2 Samuel 5:13: "After he left Hebron, David took more concubines and wives from Jerusalem, and more sons and daughters were born to him." This practice continued with his son Solomon, who had numerous concubines alongside his many wives (1 Kings 11:3).

Legal and Social Status

The legal status of concubines in Israelite society was distinct from that of wives. While concubines did not have the same legal rights as wives, they were still considered part of the household and were under the protection of the head of the family. The children of concubines were legitimate and could inherit, although their status might be secondary to that of the children of wives.

The Mosaic Law provided certain protections for concubines. For example, Exodus 21:7-11 outlines the rights of a female servant who becomes a concubine, ensuring she is not deprived of food, clothing, or marital rights. If these provisions were not met, she was to be set free.

Terminology and Usage

In some instances, concubines are referred to as "wives" in the broader sense, reflecting their role within the family structure. This is evident in the account of the Levite and his concubine in Judges 19, where the concubine is referred to as his "wife" (Judges 19:1-3). The interchangeable use of terms underscores the complexity of these relationships and their integration into the social fabric of ancient Israel.

Moral and Theological Considerations

From a theological perspective, the practice of concubinage is often viewed through the lens of the cultural and historical context of the Old Testament. While it was a common practice, it is not presented as an ideal in the biblical narrative. The New Testament, with its emphasis on monogamous marriage, reflects a shift away from the practice of concubinage. Jesus' teachings on marriage, as seen in Matthew 19:4-6, emphasize the union of one man and one woman, aligning with the creation narrative in Genesis.

In summary, concubinage in the Bible is a complex institution with legal, social, and familial implications. It reflects the cultural norms of ancient Israel while also providing insights into the evolving understanding of marriage and family in the biblical tradition.Genesis 37:2
These are the generations of Jacob. Joseph, being seventeen years old, was feeding the flock with his brothers; and the lad was with the sons of Bilhah, and with the sons of Zilpah, his father's wives: and Joseph brought to his father their evil report.
Nave's Topical Index

Judges 19:3-5
And her husband arose, and went after her, to speak friendly to her, and to bring her again, having his servant with him, and a couple of asses: and she brought him into her father's house: and when the father of the damsel saw him, he rejoiced to meet him.
Nave's Topical Index

Mothers, Daughters, and Wives in Israel
... argues in the contrary direction, and concerning a far ... regarded a marriage as merely
legalised concubinage (Cheth ... the marriage vow, but of the laws and customs ...
/.../edersheim/sketches of jewish social life/chapter 9 mothers daughters and.htm

Doctrinal and Moral Treatises. Index of Subjects.
... Concubinage, for offspring's sake unlawful, [904]406; was ... Dwelling called "sitting,"
[1110]373. ... self-existent, [1184]385; Manich??an errors concerning, [1185]385 ...
/.../on care to be had for the dead /doctrinal and moral treatises index.htm

What is a concubine? Why did God allow men to have concubines in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

How many wives did Abraham have? | GotQuestions.org

Concubinage: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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